I would like to comment on Zach Caldwell's article " Making the best of college skiing opportunities" [Ed. Note: this article was in the Early Winter, vol.6 no.1 issue of NENN]. Zach is correct regarding the time needed to research colleges you are looking at to see if they can meet your academic and athletic goals. Zach is wrong with what college can do for a broad range of racers. His comments imply that if you are an elite junior with goals of making the US Team and racing internationally then you should consider not attending college. I disagree and want to share with you the benefits of collegiate racing for these elite athletes (and others).

1. LEARN TO WIN: The collegiate circuit is the premier circuit in the country with top Americans and foreign skiers. The circuit will provide you with a great opportunity to win and learn from races against competitors, some that are faster then you at this time of your development and others that might be slower then you. Having success on this level can help you continue having the enthusiasm you need to train and race.

2. CONTINUE YOUR TRAINING DEVELOPMENT: In college you will receive hands on coaching. As you mature physically and mentally you have the opportunity to increase your hours. This will include learning about all types/phases of training, but also nutritional needs, physiological assessments, psychological education, race strategy, waxing and so on. You will also receive tutoring, academic assistance and medical assistance if injured. We all hope that skiers learn as they progress but all skiers need to have a coach to guide them. This is an important relationship that is needed at all levels.

3. YOU WILL BE FINANCIALLY SUPPORTED: Your training, waxing and racing costs will be taken care of. If you are an elite athlete you could have the opportunity to continue your development towards international racing by receiving a ski scholarship and earning a free education.

4. INTERACT AND GROW WITH PEERS: How many 18 year old skiers are ready to deal with problems on their own? In college you have the support of your coach, teammates and the college resources. The friends and camaraderie that you build with your teammates male or female, alpine or nordic is something you will remember for the rest of your life.

5. AN EDUCATION: After your collegiate career you are even more prepared to pursue an international career. The U.S. Ski Team supports approximately 8 athletes at different levels. Whether you are one of these fortunate skiers or not you would have a education to fall back on. Sure, all levels of ski racing in the country can do a better job. What a skier needs is good coaching, a good environment, consistent financial support and an opportunity to perform. Collegiate racing is a great opportunity to continue your development in a positive environment.

Thanks,
Cory Schwartz
University of New Hampshire
Coordinator of Skiing